This macaroni cheese with tomato sauce is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese! The sweetness of the sugar balances the acidity of the tomato sauce, giving it a unique, comforting flavor.
It’s quick and easy to make, and perfect for a family dinner or a weeknight meal. The creamy cheese sauce coats the macaroni beautifully, making each bite a creamy, cheesy delight.
Adding sugar might sound unusual, but it enhances the overall flavor and adds a delicious depth to the dish. Give it a try, and you might find it becoming a new family favorite!
In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make a delicious Macaroni Cheese with Tomato Sauce. You’ll find all the details you need from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions.
Let’s dive into this mouthwatering macaroni cheese with tomato sauce!
Why You’ll Love Macaroni Cheese With Tomato Sauce
This macaroni cheese with tomato sauce takes the comfort of mac and cheese to a whole new level. The combination of gooey cheese and the acidity of tomato sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors.
You’re looking for a satisfying meal for the whole family or a comforting dish to enjoy on a cold evening, this macaroni cheese with tomato sauce has you covered.
✔Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
✔Rich in Flavor: The creamy cheese blends perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce, adding layers of deliciousness.
✔Customizable: You can adjust the cheese, sauce, and seasoning according to your personal taste preferences.
How To Prepare Macaroni Cheese With Tomato Sauce?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Calories: Approx. 400-450 calories per serving (depending on portion size)
Yield: Serves 4
Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Strainer (for draining pasta)
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce (preferably homemade or a good-quality store-bought one)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
1. Boil the Macaroni:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux (it should be a light golden color). Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in the tomato sauce and granulated sugar, cooking the mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
3. Add the Cheese:
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese and tomato sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
5. Serve:
Once everything is well combined, serve the macaroni and cheese hot. Enjoy your creamy and tangy macaroni with tomato sauce!
Tips for Making Perfect
➢ If you have fresh tomatoes available, they make a great alternative to canned tomatoes. Simply blanch them, peel off the skin, and crush them before using in the sauce.
➢ Feel free to mix and match cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda for a different flavor profile. A combination of cheeses creates a more complex and rich sauce.
➢ If you want to make it more nutritious, feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the tomato sauce.
➢ For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
Our Favorite Ways to Serve it
Our favorite way to serve macaroni cheese with tomato sauce is alongside a crisp, fresh salad for a perfect balance of flavors.
You can also pair it with garlic bread for some extra crunch and flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, topping it with red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Parmesan adds an extra kick.
It’s also great as a side dish to grilled chicken or a hearty roast. Whether as a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this dish is sure to please!
Health Benefits
While macaroni and cheese isn’t typically considered a “health food,” there are still benefits to this dish when prepared thoughtfully. The tomatoes in the tomato sauce provide antioxidants like lycopene, which is great for heart health.
Additionally, cheese offers protein and calcium, essential for bone health. By adding in veggies and using whole grain pasta, you can make this meal even more nourishing.
How To Make With More Delicious
To make your macaroni cheese with tomato sauce even more delicious, try adding these tips and variations:
1. Use a Blend of Cheeses: Instead of just cheddar, mix in some mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyère for a richer, creamier flavor profile.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Sauté some minced garlic in the butter before making the sauce to enhance the flavor. You can also add dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for an aromatic touch.
3. Creamy Boost: Swap the whole milk for half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer, creamier texture.
4. Extra Flavor with Bacon or Sausage: Crumbled crispy bacon or cooked sausage adds a savory, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese and tomato sauce.
5. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to give your dish a little heat.
6. Top it Off: After serving, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top and bake the dish for a few minutes to get a crispy, golden crust. You can also top it with extra shredded cheese for an irresistible cheesy finish.
How To Store Leftovers
To store leftover macaroni cheese with tomato sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
When reheating, add a splash of milk or a little butter to restore its creaminess, and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy it just like the first time!
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Conclusion
My Macaroni Cheese with Tomato Sauce turned out to be the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. The creamy, cheesy macaroni pairs so well with the tangy tomato sauce, creating a balance that feels both indulgent and refreshing.
It’s a dish I can make quickly, yet it always hits the spot. Whether I’m making it for a cozy weeknight meal or to share with friends, it’s always a hit.
The richness of the cheese and the zesty tomato sauce together make it a go-to comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction every time.
Macaroni Cheese With Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Strainer (for draining pasta)
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce preferably homemade or a good-quality store-bought one
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
Boil the Macaroni:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux (it should be a light golden color). Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in the tomato sauce and granulated sugar, cooking the mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Add the Cheese:
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese and tomato sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
Serve:
- Once everything is well combined, serve the macaroni and cheese hot. Enjoy your creamy and tangy macaroni with tomato sauce!